Jobs in New Zealand for International Students

Studying in New Zealand presents excellent career opportunities for international students. Depending on your visa type, you can find part-time or full-time jobs in New Zealand that fit your schedule. To boost your chances of securing a job, focus on building a strong professional profile and CV that highlights your relevant skills and work experience. Good English proficiency also helps.

Look for jobs with flexible hours that align with your visa restrictions, and network within your industry to discover new opportunities.

Key Factors to Consider Before Applying for Jobs

• Your visa type and allowed work hours
  
  
• Your qualifications, skills, and experience
  
  
• Job requirements and language skills
  
  
• Job location
  
  

Universities in New Zealand with Highest Graduate Employability

Completing your degree at a reputed university increases your job prospects. Here are some New Zealand universities known for high graduate employment rates:

Highest-Paying Jobs in New Zealand for International Students

International students in New Zealand can access high-paying jobs in sectors with strong demand and skill shortages. Fields like IT, Engineering, Healthcare, and Management offer some of the most lucrative career options due to their growing importance in the country’s economy.

1. Information Technology (IT)

New Zealand’s tech industry is rapidly expanding, creating opportunities for skilled IT professionals. High-paying roles include:

• IT Managers
  
  
• Software Developers
  
  
• Cloud Engineers
  
  
• Cybersecurity Specialists
  Tech companies such as Xero and Datacom often recruit international graduates.
  
  

2. Engineering

Engineers are highly valued, especially in civil and infrastructure projects. High-paying roles include:

• Civil Engineers
  
  
• Structural Engineers
  
  
• Project Engineers
  Major firms like Fletcher Building and Downer are key employers in this field.
  
  

3. Healthcare

Healthcare professionals are in constant demand. Top-paying jobs include:

• Medical Specialists (Surgeons, General Practitioners)
  
  
• Nurses
  
  
• Physiotherapists
  
  
• Healthcare Administrators
  These roles offer long-term job security and competitive salaries.
  
  

4. Management

Management positions in finance, IT, and marketing offer some of the best salaries in New Zealand. Common roles include:

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
  
  
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  
  
• Marketing and IT Managers
  Experienced professionals in these fields are well-compensated.
  
  

5. Other High-Paying Sectors

• Construction & Trades: Project Managers, Electricians, and Plumbers are in demand for large-scale construction projects.
  
  
• Finance & Banking: Financial Analysts and Finance Managers earn strong salaries and play a key role in business operations.
  
  

Building the right skillset and gaining local work experience can significantly improve your chances of landing a high-paying job after graduation.

How to Find Part-Time Jobs in New Zealand

Finding part-time jobs in New Zealand for international students is manageable with the right tools and strategies. From university job portals to online platforms and networking, several resources can help students earn while studying.

1. University Job Portals

Most universities in New Zealand have student-focused career portals that list both on-campus and trusted off-campus job opportunities. These are often the safest and most relevant sources for international students.
Check your university’s career services website to register and apply directly through their platform.

2. Online Job Boards

Several national job boards make it easier for students to find flexible work options:

• Seek.co.nz – One of the largest job portals in New Zealand.
  
  
• Student Job Search (SJS) – Tailored for students and recent graduates, offering part-time, casual, and internship roles.
  
  
• Trade Me Jobs – Offers a section for part-time and temporary work.
  
  
• Indeed – Lists both local and remote jobs across various industries.
  
  

These platforms are updated daily and allow students to filter by hours, location, and industry.

3. Networking and Career Events

Building connections can lead to valuable job opportunities:

• LinkedIn – Create a complete profile, showcase your skills, and connect with recruiters or professionals in your field.
  
  
• University career fairs – Attend events where employers actively recruit international students.
  
  
• Informational interviews – Message professionals in your desired career path and request short conversations to understand job expectations and market demand.
  
  
• Facebook Groups – Many part-time job offers are posted in local groups focused on students and casual work.
  
  

4. Other Useful Resources

• Local community boards – Supermarkets, cafes, and libraries often post part-time job ads.
  
  
• Newspaper classifieds – Still used in smaller towns for casual roles.
  
  
• Immigration New Zealand website – Stay informed about your visa work rights and updated employment conditions for international students.
  
  

Utilizing these platforms and strategies will enhance your chances of finding a suitable job that aligns with your schedule, meets your financial needs, and complements your experience while studying in New Zealand.

Average Salary for Part-Time Jobs in New Zealand

For international students seeking employment in New Zealand, part-time roles offer a viable means of supporting living expenses while studying. On average, part-time student jobs pay between NZD 23.15 and $33.23 per hour, depending on experience, job type, and location.

Key Factors That Affect Salary:

• Minimum Wage: The current adult minimum wage in New Zealand is NZD $23.15 per hour. Most entry-level roles for students start here.
  
  
• Experience & Skills: Students with relevant experience or specialized skills can earn up to NZD $33.23 per hour or more, especially in IT, tutoring, or technical fields.
  
  
• Industry: Jobs in retail and hospitality often pay closer to the minimum wage, while roles in customer service, tech, or skilled trades tend to offer higher hourly rates.
  
  
• Location: Cities like Auckland and Wellington may offer higher wages due to greater demand, though living costs are also higher.
  
  
• Job Type: On-campus jobs may provide flexible scheduling and steady pay, sometimes with fewer visa-related work restrictions.
  
  

Common Part-Time Jobs in New Zealand for International Students:

• Retail Staff: Supermarkets, clothing stores, and electronics shops frequently hire students.
  
  
• Hospitality Workers: Baristas, waitstaff, kitchen assistants, and hotel workers are always in demand.
  
  
• Customer Support: Call centres and service-based companies often recruit students for evening shifts.
  
  
• On-Campus Jobs: Universities offer roles in libraries, admin offices, IT helpdesks, or student support services.

Eligibility Requirements for Working While Studying in New Zealand

To work legally, you must:

• Hold a valid student visa that allows work
  
  
• Be enrolled full-time in an approved program
  
  
• Meet specific job qualifications or experience (if required)
  
  
• Follow work-hour limits set by your visa
  
  

Check each job’s specific requirements before applying.

Permitted Work Hours for Students in New Zealand

International students in New Zealand are generally allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during the academic term. During scheduled breaks, such as the summer holiday, they can work full-time.

However, starting November 2025, there will be changes to the work limit. Eligible tertiary and secondary students (Years 12 and 13) will be able to work up to 25 hours per week during term time.

Work Hour Rules Overview:

• During Term Time: Most international students can work up to 20 hours per week if their visa permits it.
  
  
• During Breaks: You can work full-time during official study breaks, like summer vacation.
  
  
• Upcoming Changes (Nov 2025): Eligible students will be allowed to work 25 hours per week during term time.
  
  
• Exchange & Study Abroad Students: Tertiary students in approved exchange or Study Abroad programs, including one-semester courses, are also allowed to work part-time during term time.
  
  
• After Graduation: You may work full-time after completing your studies, depending on your visa conditions.
  
  
• Course-Based Eligibility: You must be enrolled in a full-time program that lasts at least two academic years or leads to a Level 4 or higher qualification to be eligible for part-time work.
  
  

Always check your student visa details to confirm your permitted work hours and conditions.

Jobs in New Zealand for International Students provide a valuable way to support your living expenses, gain local experience, and enhance your career prospects. By understanding your visa conditions, developing relevant skills, and using job platforms wisely, you can find flexible and rewarding work during your studies.